Leeds United transfer news: Marcelo Bielsa urged to get on with big deals - EXCLUSIVE

LEEDS UNITED must use Marcelo Bielsa’s global standing to sign top players this summer, reckons Dean Ashton.

Leeds have so far laboured in the transfer market, with Bielsa’s appointment dragging on for weeks.

The former Argentina and Chile manager eventually agreed to become the Whites’ new boss and is tasked with hauling them back into the Premier League.

But Leeds have so far failed to sign a first-team player permanently in the transfer window, with Jamal Blackman and Lewis Baker their two loan arrivals from Chelsea, while Morecambe left-back Leif Davis has headed to the reserves.

Leeds were left wanting in the Championship last season and struggled for goals when Chris Wood was sold to Burnley.

And former West Ham striker Ashton is hopeful Bielsa can work his magic in the transfer window.

Which players are most likely to join Leeds United during the summer transfer window – according to Football Whispers? (1 – unlikely, 5 – very likely)

“But with his wealth of experience I was surprised that they managed to get him in.

"If I was a Leeds fan I’d be excited by the manager but I want to see him bring in a few more, not necessarily household names but players to excite, players who can make that real difference in the league.”

Leeds finished 13th in the Championship last season despite looking like early contenders to win the division.

They sacked Thomas Christiansen and replaced him in February with Paul Heckingbottom, who lasted until June.

Leeds United axed Paul Heckingbottom after less than six months in charge (Image: GETTY)

But Ashton reckons they were missing a key player for much of last term.

“”f you have one star player player that can bring everyone together - it doesn’t have to be a striker, it can be a creative midfield player like Ruben Neves for Wolves last season - it can give you that push,” he added.

“Leeds got off to a great start last season and faded away.

“It’s about consistency and they definitely need to add to their squad to give them more depth.”